This episode is in my faves forever. Such great feedback and raw truths said here. Personally felt so validated when Siff said being unproductive is productive for her. Burnout is real and her saying that made me feel better about myself and my business HSR is the best!!! - Meghan, Spotify Podcast Reviewer
♡ 01. read before screens ♡
Every single morning, before my phone, before getting ready, before anything. I’ve kept this ritual for over three years now, and it has completely changed my life.
♡ 02. progression to analog ♡
My podcast is where I explore what it means to live a more human every day in a digital-first world. It keeps me grounded and curious.
♡ 03. vintage finds ♡
I’m always searching on this site for secondhand treasures. Hunting for clothes this way feels both fun and sustainable.
♡ 04. deep dives into culture ♡
I’m obsessed with this Doomscroll episode featuring Matty Healy. It examines how internet culture shapes our time — something I think about constantly as a sociologist studying smartphones.
♡ 05. rethinking failure ♡
Working with Harvard Business School Professor Amy Edmondson has been transformative. Her book changes how we understand failure and how it can become fuel for growth.
♡ 06. unwind differently ♡
This kava-based drink makes me feel relaxed and social without the side effects of alcohol. It’s become my go-to way to wind down.
♡ 07. language in flux ♡
Adam Aleksic’s book is a fascinating look at how social media is reshaping the way we use language. It’s playful, smart, and essential reading.
♡ 08. loyal fandom ♡
I’ve been a lifelong Jets and Mets fan. Sports keep me connected, give me community, and offer a world outside of news and work.
♡ 09. workspace rituals ♡
A thoughtfully designed desk makes all the difference. I love picking up cute journals and notebooks from local paper shops to motivate me to write more.
♡ 10. glow screen every day ♡
I never skip sunscreen. It’s the ultimate daily ritual for protecting my skin and keeping it healthy long-term.
♡ Hot, Smart, Rich Tips ♡
♡ Hot Hack ♡
Don't scroll in public (like when you're at an event or with friends) it negatively affects your presence!
♡ Smart Hack ♡
Read more! There's a genre for everyone. Go to your local bookstore, used book websites, and buy a couple of books that look interesting to you. Even if it takes you a while to really get into it, it's best to have the objects in front of you before you need them!
♡ Rich Tip ♡
Go to more museums! I have loved my past experiences as a member of Young Stedelijk, MoMA Junior Associates, and Met Apollo Circle. Great way to meet people. Even outside of those official groups, exploring museums is always a great way to expand your mind and expand your circle in a more natural way.
♡ Favorite Part of the Conversation ♡
I loved talking with you about notification culture — how the acceleration of communication in everyday life, work, and relationships is impacting our brains. It’s something we both feel every day, and it was so powerful to unpack it together.
♡ Something People Don’t Know About You ♡
I did a half-Ironman at 14, a marathon at 16, and a full Ironman at 18!
♡ About The Guest ♡
Caitlin Begg – Founder of Authentic Social
Caitlin Begg is the Founder of Authentic Social, an applied research lab focused on designing a sociotechnical future — where people and technology are jointly optimized. Based in New York City with an additional office in Amsterdam, she has over 8 years of experience (since founding Authentic Social as an undergrad at Harvard in 2016), creating research, speaking, and workshops about technology’s effect on communication, interpersonal relationships, workplace design, and AI. She hosts the Progression to Analog podcast, explores actionable strategies to future-proof your work and everyday life, and speaks globally at venues like Brain Bar, World Summit AI, Columbia University, and the Responsible AI Forum.